Virbhadra sends out warning to bureaucracy

Himachal Pradesh Congress Committee chief Virbhadra Singh on Friday sent out a warning to the bureaucracy in the state. Singh called officers on re-employment to quit voluntarily.

Singh expressed concern over the role a few bureaucrats played during the regime of Prem Kumar Dhumal's government. "Bureaucrats have been politicised, some of them played active part in fulfilling the political designs of Prem Kumar Dhumal beyond the cause of duty," said Singh, adding that he had reports pertaining to role of certain bureaucrats during the Dhumal regime. I have complaints about certain officers who exceeded their limits of duty," said Singh, adding that he would not only go solely by the complaints but will make self-assessment.

"I will not go by hearsay but will test their conduct," he said. "Bureaucracy is like horse. If the rider is good, it performance better. If the rider is inexperienced, he falls from the horse," said Singh.

He said that he would recall officers who are currently on central deputation. "Officers who are on long leave will be called back to the state," he said.

Singh stemmed out a warning to the officers who have been re-employed during the BJP regime. "Those on re-employment should voluntary quit," said Singh, hinting that the Congress government will not make immediate changes in the administration. If there is need only then changes will be made," he said.

Singh was reticent about becoming the chief minister for sixth time. "The final decision will be taken by the AICC. I hope that sentiments of legislators and the mass public support will be taken into consideration," he said.

"What is visible doesn't need to be demonstrated," said Singh when asked whether he would demonstrate his support. Virbhadra also attempted to defend the defeat of the some of his staunch loyalists. "It happens in democracy," Singh said and feigned ignorance over his rivals' camping in New Delhi. "It's the beauty of democracy that everyone can aspire to become the chief minister," said Singh.

Virbhadra clarified that if he takes over the reign of the state, he will not follow the politics of vendetta. "Unlike my predecessor I will not follow the politics of vendetta. I will not concoct cases against anybody," said Singh, reiterating that the Congress government will set up a special investigative team to look into the corruption cases that took place during the regime of Prem Kumar Dhumal government.